Zovirax Cold Sore Cream (Tube) – 2g

Description

Zovirax Cold Sore Cream (Tube) – 2g

Zovirax Cold Sore Cream is a topical antiviral treatment used to treat cold sores (caused by the herpes simplex virus) on the lips and face. It helps to reduce the duration and severity of cold sore outbreaks, particularly when applied at the earliest sign of an outbreak.

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How It Works

Zovirax contains aciclovir, an antiviral medicine that works by stopping the herpes simplex virus from reproducing. It does this by blocking a key enzyme the virus needs to copy its DNA, helping to limit the spread of infection and speed up healing.

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Directions for Use

Apply a small amount of cream to the affected area five times a day, approximately every four hours (avoiding night-time doses). Treatment should begin as soon as you notice the first signs of a cold sore — such as tingling, itching, or redness — and continue for five days. If the cold sore has not healed after five days, you may continue treatment for a further five days. Wash your hands before and after applying the cream, and avoid getting it in your eyes. This product is suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure about the correct dose, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.

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Active Ingredients

• Aciclovir 5% w/w

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Possible Side Effects

• Mild burning or stinging sensation at the application site
• Itching or tingling after application
• Dry or flaking skin at the affected area
• Temporary redness of the skin
• Contact dermatitis (skin irritation or rash) — less common

If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking this medicine and seek medical advice immediately.

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Who Should Not Take This Medicine

• People who are allergic to aciclovir, valaciclovir, propylene glycol, or any other ingredient in the cream
• Children under 12 years of age (unless advised by a doctor)
• This cream is for external use only — do not apply inside the mouth, nose, eyes, or genitals
• People with severely weakened immune systems should seek medical advice before use

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Interactions

Zovirax Cold Sore Cream is applied to the skin and is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream, so interactions with other medicines are unlikely. However, if you are using any other topical products on the same area, check with your pharmacist before combining them. Tell your PillSorted pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Only very small amounts of aciclovir are absorbed through the skin when using this cream, meaning the risk to an unborn baby or nursing infant is considered to be very low. However, as a precaution, you should use this product only when clearly necessary during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

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Alcohol

There is no known interaction between Zovirax Cold Sore Cream and alcohol. As this is a topical cream that is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream, alcohol consumption is not expected to affect how the medicine works.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Zovirax Cold Sore Cream is applied directly to the skin and is not expected to cause drowsiness or affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. You can continue your normal daily activities whilst using this product.

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Storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not refrigerate or freeze the cream, as this may affect its texture and effectiveness. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.

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Important Information

• This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any other medication or complementary therapy.
• If symptoms worsen or persist, contact your doctor.
• If pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, seek medical advice before use.
• If you suffer from allergies, confirm suitability with your PillSorted pharmacist before use.
• Store out of sight and reach of children.
• Read the enclosed patient information leaflet carefully before use.
• Contact your GP where appropriate.

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Patient Information Leaflet

For the full Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for this medicine, visit the electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). For further information about this medicine, visit NHS.uk.

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This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: February 2026.

Weight	0.02 kg
Brand	Zovirax